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Jonah didn’t get it. Like us, Jonah thought he was in charge, he could control his life, he knew what was good or not so good for him. What he didn’t realize was this was not about him. pp. 28

How many times have you read this story? What is the first thought that comes to your mind when you see the name Jonah? I’d bet it’s the fish. But you know what? Jonah is not about the whale. It’s not about what’s going on inside the fish. It’s about what’s going on inside of Jonah. Surprised at that? I was. We want it to be about the whale because we don’t want to face our own fickleness which is so much like Jonah’s.

Am I saying we’re fickle Believer’s? Yes, I am. When life is going as planned (by us) and we’ve achieved a measure of success (Jonah was a known prophet.) we can start believing we can control our own lives and destiny. We can’t! That’s part of what this story is about. Jonah had to learn (the hard way) that once he committed to being God’s servant it was no longer about him. It’s all about God’s mercy! ALL! Even for someone as fickle as Jonah. Someone who thought he had it all together. Someone who knew God intimately, heard His voice, helped others understand Him.

What Jonah didn’t recognize in himself was his sinful nature. He thought everyone else was sinful. (i.e., the Ninevites) He certainly didn’t want to be in contact with that kind of sin. So he ran away. He didn’t get that you can’t run away from God. But he certainly tried.

We all know that God is the God of many chances. When He sets His sights on one of us He never gives up. That’s how I see the story of Jonah. God would not give up! From the pit (in the hold of the boat) to the prison (in the belly of the whale) to the palace (maybe the home of Shalmaneser lll) God pursued him.

I’ve studied the book of Jonah several times, with different authors, and let me say this is the first time I saw myself in this Old Testament parable. I’ve never grown tired of this story and I hope I never will. God will continue His pursuit of you and me. My fervent prayer is we will hear Him and respond so we don’t end up in a giant fish.

…He is not going to stop until He gets you. Goodness and mercy shall pursue you all the days of your life (Ps. 23:6). pp. 48

God keeps his appointments and has every intention of making sure we do too. pp. 57

If you have people in your life who love you enough to talk to you about your sin, don’t cut them off. Don’t shut them down. Don’t blame them. They are the grace of God to you. pp. 87

In every church gathered in this world today, people are either changing the gospel, or the gospel is changing them… We must not seek to change God’s Word but seek to be changed by it. pp.106

I highly recommend this book. It’s a life changer!

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Broadman Holman/Lifeway Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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What stands between us and totally serving our LORD? For me, it is often what I want to happen. Sometimes, I want the credit for volunteering to do a service. Sometimes, I want others to see what a great job I‘ve done. Obviously, one can see that an “I infection” is creating a barrier between us (me and JESUS). Since I’m being totally honest here let me say, I’m also totally aware that I am not giving Him total control of all parts in this life.

So then what happens? How do I make the necessary changes? Through lots of prayer, asking forgiveness (sometimes begging forgiveness), knowing and claiming His Word. Matt. 6:33 can be the focus for a prayer like this. Are we truly seeking His Kingdom and His Righteousness? Then we can serve Him and know how He wants us to serve Him.

Understand that not just “I infections” get between us and really serving Him. It could also be family, friends, spouse, career, home, “stuff”, other addictions…

He wants a strong relationship with us (through prayer and knowing His Word) so when He has a service opportunity for us we are ready and willing to do what HE needs!

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Yes, the little things and the small stuff do matter! Years ago, it was recommended to me that I meet with my mentor on a regular basis and work through a then-popular book. I did and let me tell you it was very difficult for me to do. I have never believed the ‘little things’ simply don’t matter.

Suppose you’re given a job to do that requires many small steps but you choose to jump right to the finish. Tell ya what… it doesn’t work that way. Quite often it’s because something gets left out that was very necessary to the ongoing process.

For example, I have committed to a healthy eating program. I eat only those things that are healthy for my body. Since I have a sensitivity to wheat I am very careful about not eating it. Refined sugar is an outright no-no. By eating foods as close to nature as possible I am able to think more clearly, have more energy, and yes, lose weight. Eliminating wheat and sugar, eating only foods close to nature, exercising, positive thinking, and sharing my journey with ‘helpers’ are all part of the ‘small steps’ in the journey.

As you know, I review books on a regular basis on this blog. I do not cut corners in this process. Reading just the title, author, first paragraph, and last paragraph would not allow for a fair review. I definitely take the long route, read the book, take notes and then share my thoughts. Many times it’s the little things in the narrative that create a lasting impression.

The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32) is a really good example of how much the ‘small stuff’ matters. Planting a very small seed and allowing it to grow creates a tree that provides shelter and food (more small seeds). Jesus used these words to help people understand that in the small stuff (the seed) is provision (food and shelter) for all those who take refuge in it. Yes, the little things matter!!!

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Have you ever given thought to ‘Who Sang The First Song?’ Did you know there’s a constant sound in the universe? That sound originates from the sun, neutron stars, black holes, and more.

From the beginning of time, there have been sounds all around. God has not only put the beauty of sound everywhere but He has given each of His creation their own song. Each song is individualized and determined for each one of us to use in furthering His Kingdom on Earth.

Now I recognize this is a bit ‘heavy’ for children. However, Ellie Holcomb, in her book Who Sang The First Song?, covers the concept in words and questions that children can understand.

After all, didn’t God tell us to make a joyful noise? And what is more joyful than a song straight from the heart.

So, if you need a really great children’s gift, or want to enrich your home library, I highly recommend this delightful book.

Blessings to you and yours!

Marie

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Broadman Holman/Lifeway Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Each year I choose one word as my focus. I’m kind of leaning toward ‘believe’ but I’m also carefully and prayerfully considering other options. I also include a Bible verse for the year with my choice. Here are a few I’m considering, perhaps they’ll help with your choice, too.

BELIEVE Blessed is she who has believed that the LORD would fulfill His promises to her. Luke 1:45 (NIV)

LISTEN Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, for the life of your soul is at stake. Isaiah 55:3(TLB)

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Do we read to much into the Bible? Perhaps so. It’s possible that we need to be reminded of the basic truths of God’s Word. As I read through The Beginner’s Bible I was once again reminded of the simplicity of it all.

Through the eyes of a child these basic truths are evident:

God created us!

God chose us!

God loves us!

God wants us to love Him!

It doesn’t get much easier than that!

Throughout this Bible, for children, the pictures tell more of the story allowing for deeper understanding. For instance, in the story of Hannah, Eli, the priest sees her praying and wonder’s what she is so intense about. The picture shows Eli with the Ephod that is decorated with the 12 stones. What an opportunity to discuss what this is and means.

I particularly loved the beautiful rendition of Psalm 23. The archaic words of the KJV may be how many of us memorized it, but it never hurts to look at His Word through other ‘transliterations’. Check it out here:

Psalm 23 – This is one of King David’s songs about God:

The Lord is my shepherd. He gives me everything I need. He lets me lie down in fields of green grass. He leads me beside quiet waters. He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths for the honor of His name. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid. You, God, are with me. Your shepherd’s rod and staff comfort me. You prepare a feast for me right in front of my enemies. You pour oil on my head. My cup runs over. I am sure Your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life. And I will live in the house of the LORD forever. (pp. 190-193)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Harper Collins Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”